National Championships

for

36” Shipmate, RM and IOM Class Yachts

 

The 2003 Nationals for 36” Shipmate, Marblehead and IOM Class yachts took place from the 21 September 2003 until 27 September 2003 in front of the Henley Midmar Yacht Club. A total of 36 Skippers entered across the three classes with 20 sailing in the 36” Shipmates 18 in the Marblehead and 25 in the IOM Class. The International Heat Management System was used and two fleets were sailed in each Class.

 

36” Shipmate Class

Sailed on Sunday 21st and Monday 22nd. The weather was not kind with rain falling throughout Sunday. This together with the clay which was exposed as a result of the low water level produced a quagmire as the skippers walked the shore following their boats. The sponsored rain jackets proved most popular and proved to be extremely waterproof and warm.

Monday also started in light rain and winds but cleared as the day progressed. Fortunately the wind played ball and as can be seen from the scores the racing was very competitive as usual in this class.

 

After twelve races the top five skippers were:

 Des Fairbank               21

Norrie Taylor               24

John Mckerchar           27

Colin Bremner              29

Peter Simons                29

 

Marblehead Class

            Sailed on Tuesday 23rd and Wednesday 24th. Fortunately the clay had almost dried out making it more pleasant than for the 36” Class. “A” Rigs were used for most of Tuesday and on Wednesday the wind freshened to the extent that C2 rigs were being used with the occasional boat going out on a C3 rig.

 

After 13 races and two discards the top five skippers were:

Des Fairbank                21

Barry Loubser              33

John Mckerchar           33

Shaun Carroll               48

Joe Robbertse              49

 

IOM Class

            Sailed on Thursday 25th through to Saturday 27th this class as expected attracted the largest entry with 25 boats. Sailing was extremely competitive in winds that varied from No 1 rig to No. 3 Rig at times. Some seven different skippers won races and after 19 races (each consisting of two heats) and three discards the top five places went to:

Des Fairbank                41

Barry Loubser              53

Norrie Taylor               54

Shaun Carroll               63

John McKerchar          95

 

Our thanks to OOD Reg Beavitt and HMYC for their hospitality.

 

A General Committee Meeting of SARSA (South African Radio Sailing Association) took place on Thursday evening and we are pleased to announce that the Western Cape will be host for the 2004 National Championship.

 

Report by:

D.J.Fairbank

Chairman RSKZN (Organising Committee)